The `BETWEEN` operator in SQL allows you to select rows where a value falls within a specific range, including the start and end points. It's particularly useful for filtering data based on dates.
The `BETWEEN` operator is a convenient way to select rows from a table where a date or other numerical value lies within a specified range. It's a concise alternative to using comparison operators like `>=` and `<=` to define the range. This operator is crucial for tasks like finding all orders placed between specific dates, or identifying all employees hired within a particular time frame. It simplifies the query and improves readability, making your SQL code easier to understand and maintain. Using `BETWEEN` directly specifies the inclusive range, which is often the desired behavior when working with dates. For example, if you want to find all orders placed between January 1, 2023, and January 31, 2023, you can use `BETWEEN` to directly specify this range in your query.
The `BETWEEN` operator simplifies date range filtering, making SQL queries more readable and maintainable. It's a standard SQL feature used extensively in data analysis and reporting.